Female infertility (adjunctive care)
Also known as: female infertility, infertility, difficulty conceiving, subfertility, trouble getting pregnant
Infertility means not conceiving after 12 months of trying (or 6 months over age 35). Causes include ovulation problems, tubal damage, endometriosis, age and male factors — investigation of both partners is the first step. Chinese medicine is used as an adjunct: supporting cycle regularity, reducing stress, and supporting people through fertility treatment including IVF. It never replaces fertility investigation or treatment.
Plain-English one-pager you can print or hand to a patient. Free, no sign-in needed.
Lifestyle & Diet
- •Both partners get investigated early — don't let it all sit on one person.
- •Aim for a healthy weight; both underweight and overweight affect ovulation.
- •Stop smoking and keep alcohol minimal or none while trying.
- •Take folate daily from at least one month before conception.
- •Protect your mental health — counselling, support groups and honest conversations with your partner all help.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Chinese medicine is an adjunct to fertility investigation and treatment, never a replacement for it.[,]
- •Many fertility formulas are contraindicated in pregnancy — stop and reassess the moment pregnancy is confirmed.[]
- •Avoid SP6, LI4 and strong Blood-moving points after embryo transfer or in confirmed pregnancy.[]
- •No claims of guaranteed conception are ever appropriate — outcomes depend on the underlying cause.[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Review cycle by cycle. Refer to a fertility specialist if not already engaged; any positive pregnancy test triggers an immediate review of points and formulas.
Explore more diseases
Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- healthdirect Australia · 2024
- Jean Hailes · 2024
- AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.